The Las Vegas Raiders were dealt a significant blow ahead of training camp when they couldn't reach an understanding with $110 million defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and ultimately released him. Fortunately for the Raiders, they felt that they had reinforcements at the position.
Not only were Adam Butler and Jonah Laulu returning, but they signed veteran Leki Fotu in free agency and selected two defensive tackles, Tonka Hemingway and J.J. Pegues, on Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft. The two youngsters were thought to be projects, but certainly capable of being ready.
Initially, the idea was that Butler, Laulu and Fotu would comprise the rotation and the rookies would fill in the gaps where possible.